Essential Ndubuisi
Renowned Nollywood actress Stephanie Linus has been named the chairperson of the Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) responsible for the Best International Feature Film category at the prestigious Academy Awards, commonly referred to as the Oscars.
The announcement of Stephanie’s appointment came shortly after the founder of NOSC, Chineze Anyaene-Abonyi, officially stepped down from her role. Chineze’s decision to resign occurred following the successful re-approval of NOSC by the Oscars in preparation for the 96th edition of the Academy Awards, scheduled for 2024.
This significant development followed the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) granting approval for the formation of a revamped 14-member team to constitute the NOSC, following the departure of the previous chairperson.
The restructured NOSC comprises notable individuals in the Nigerian film industry, including Dr. Chidia Maduekwe, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC); veteran Nollywood actress Omotola Jolade-Ekeinde; Dr. Victor Okhai, President of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN); Mr. Andy Amenechi, former President of DGN; theater practitioner Yibo Koko; and writer/director Izu Ojukwu, among others.
Stephanie Linus’s appointment underscores her prominent stature in the Nigerian entertainment industry and her contributions to the cinematic landscape. With her new role as chairperson of NOSC, she will play a pivotal role in selecting the Nigerian film submission for consideration in the Best International Feature Film category at the upcoming Academy Awards.
This development reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to showcasing its rich cinematic talent on the global stage and underscores the industry’s aspiration to secure international recognition at one of the world’s most prestigious film events. As the restructured NOSC embarks on its responsibilities, the Nigerian film community eagerly anticipates the outcome of their efforts in the lead-up to the 96th Academy Awards ceremony.
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